The Belle Stars, an all-girl band that emerged from the two-tone/ska revival scene in the early 1980s, is back with a new 3CD, 7-inch-sized box set titled 'The Belle Stars'. This release offers a comprehensive look at the band's audio legacy, including their debut album, non-LP singles, and a live album recorded in 1983. The box set is a testament to the band's enduring appeal and their impact on the music industry, particularly within the female-fronted music scene.
The Belle Stars' story began when five members of the two-tone/ska revival band The Bodysnatchers decided to forge a new path. Guitarists Stella Barker and Sarah-Jane Owen, alto saxophonist Miranda Joyce, keyboardist Penny Leyton, and drummer Judy Parsons joined forces with bassist Lesley Shone and lead singer Jennie Matthias. Their unique sound, blending pop and ska influences, caught the attention of Stiff Records, who signed them in early 1981. The band's early singles, such as 'Hiawatha' and 'Slick Trick', failed to chart, but their cover of The Dixie Cups' 'Iko Iko' marked a turning point.
The band's breakthrough moment came with the self-written 'Sign of the Times', produced by Peter Collins. This single not only reached the top 3 on the UK Singles Chart but also made an impact in the US, peaking at No. 75 on the Hot 100. The dance remix of 'Sign of the Times' further solidified their presence in the club scene, peaking at No. 43 on the US Dance chart. The band's success continued with top 75 entries on the UK Singles Chart and a top 20 album, solidifying their place in the music industry.
The new box set, 'The Belle Stars', is a comprehensive collection of the band's work. It includes the original studio album, mastered by Phil Kinrade, and eighteen non-LP sides, all nine 12-inch remixes, and two remixes of 'Iko Iko' that coincided with the song's appearance in the Tom Cruise/Dustin Hoffman drama 'Rain Man'. The set also features 'Live Signs, Live Times', a concert recorded in 1983 at the Birmingham Odeon, and three songs produced by Anne Dudley for an abortive second album. The packaging is a seven-inch format, with a ten-page booklet containing photos, credits, and a brief note, paying tribute to the band's legacy.
The Belle Stars' music continues to resonate with audiences, and their influence on the female-fronted music scene is undeniable. The band's ability to blend pop and ska, coupled with their powerful lyrics and memorable melodies, has left a lasting impact on the industry. The new box set is a must-have for fans of the band and a testament to their enduring appeal, offering a comprehensive look at their musical journey and the evolution of their sound.
